Brooke O’Brian has spent her entire life on the move, having been raised by a free spirit of a mother.When she inherits her grandmother’s house in California, she decides to take a temporary EMT job while preparing the house for sale.The first person she encounters when she arrives for work is firefighter Zach Thomas, and the sparks begin to fly almost immediately. Regardless of the chemistry between them and knowing that Zach might be interested in more than just a quick fling, Brooke knows that her time in Santa Rey is limited and there’s no room in her life for a lasting relationship.

Zach Thomas has dedicated his life to firefighting, having lost his parents in a fire.While his job and his friends have always been enough for him, he finds himself restless for something, or maybe someone, to round out his life.When he meets Brooke, the attraction is instantaneous and it is definitely undeniable.Zach understands that Brooke has always been content to live in a constant state of motion and total independence, but he’s hopeful that he can convince her to consider a serious, long-term relationship with him.

Jill Shalvis never fails to deliver characters and settings that are believable and realistic; Zach and Brooke are no exception.They both have painful pasts that are reflected in the adults they have become.Both are insecure as to what they have to offer in a lasting relationship so they’ve simply avoided becoming involved.Now that they’ve met each other, it looks like they may have to rethink their plans for the future. I highly recommend this book for all contemporary romance readers.